Campsites near Grenloch, New Jersey offer year-round opportunities throughout the Pine Barrens region. The area's sandy soil and relatively flat terrain at about 100 feet above sea level create well-draining campsites even after heavy rain. Summer temperatures typically range from 75-90°F with moderate humidity, while spring and fall camping provides comfortable 50-70°F days with cooler nights.
What to do
Kayaking at Goshen Pond: Put in directly from waterfront sites for easy river access. "Our site was right next to the Mullica River, and had excellent views if you walked just a couple steps from the tent. We were able to put our kayaks in right next to the site which was very convenient. It's also a 5 minute drive from Atsion lake, a great place for kayaking and swimming," notes one Goshen Pond — Wharton State Forest visitor.
Hiking the Batona Trail: Access this 50-mile trail system directly from campgrounds. "The Batona trail runs through the campground," explains a camper at Batona — Wharton State Forest. "Trails vary in length but all are flat and easily accessible."
Fishing opportunities: Multiple stocked ponds and lakes provide good catches. "Nice for a quiet weekend," says one camper about Old Cedar Campground, which features "good fishing" according to another reviewer who called it "home base."
What campers like
Privacy at primitive sites: Some campgrounds offer secluded options away from crowds. "It is so easy to get lost in these woods and I LOVE IT! If you want off the beaten path and not close to anyone... this is IT!" writes a Batona camper about the dog friendly campgrounds near Grenloch.
Clean facilities: Well-maintained bathhouses across multiple campgrounds. "The bathrooms were immaculate compared to most campgrounds," notes a visitor to Philadelphia South/Clarksboro KOA who also mentioned they "filled our propane tank here."
Water recreation options: Swimming, boating, and water play areas. "This campground was so well maintained. There was so much to do there a pool, lake, horseshoes, cornhole, playground, big pillow and even more," reports a Clarksboro KOA camper. Similarly, at Hospitality Creek Campground, "The pools are nice and have on-duty lifeguards all day."
What you should know
Sand roads can be challenging: Many campgrounds feature sandy access routes. "The road into the campground is about 1 mile of loose sand. It can be accessed by a standard vehicle," mentions a Batona camper. Another notes: "Roads into the place are single car only, with a good amount of spots to pull off if you find yourself head to head with another vehicle."
Limited cell service: Connectivity varies by location. At Parvin State Park Campground, "Verizon cell service was between 1 and 2 bars," according to a recent visitor.
Wildlife awareness needed: Several campgrounds have active wildlife. "Bears frequent this campground so be bear aware and practice proper food storage," warns a Batona camper. Ticks are also common, with one visitor noting: "Great trails, just gotta check often for chiggers and ticks."
Tips for camping with families
Lakefront sites for kids: Request waterfront locations when available. "I always get site #8 and it has an amazing view of the lake. While camping at Atsion family campground, you have free access to the recreation center (the beach and some trails)," shares a visitor to Atsion Family Camp — Wharton State Forest.
Activity scheduling: Many campgrounds offer organized events. "They offer so many activities during the day and text you so you don't forget," notes a Philadelphia South/Clarksboro KOA camper. Similarly, at Hospitality Creek, families enjoyed "time on the lake in a rented paddleboat, and had a blast at the 70s-themed live concert at the pavilion."
Pack extra water containers: Iron content affects water quality at some locations. A Parvin State Park camper reports: "The water has a very high iron content. I couldn't even use it for tooth brushing. Most of the showers were out of order. The toilets were clean but had the orange staining from the iron in the water."
Tips from RVers
Bring extra hose length: Some hookups require longer connections. "The water hookups are shared every other site (at least in the Fence Loop). I was lucky my 75' hose barely reached the distance needed," shares an Old Cedar Campground visitor.
Site selection for big rigs: Many campgrounds have tight turns and narrow roads. "The roads and turns were tight for our 36' motorhome, but manageable," notes a Hospitality Creek camper. At Parvin State Park, another RVer advises: "Bathrooms were clean but most of the faucets on the sinks were broken. I stayed at Site#8 in a travel trailer. Site was level and easy in and out."
Advance delivery services: Some pet-friendly campgrounds near Grenloch offer convenient amenities. "They'll deliver firewood, ice, and food from the camp store to your site— that's classy," mentions a Hospitality Creek visitor. At Philadelphia South/Clarksboro KOA, "they also would deliver firewood to your fire ring which was a awesome touch."
